metformin

noun

met·​for·​min met-ˈfȯr-mən 

: a drug used in the form of its hydrochloride C₄H₁₁N₅·HCl especially to treat type 2 diabetes

Examples of metformin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Berberine and metformin interact, so taking them two hours apart is recommended. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 7 Feb. 2025

The new study found a higher prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, in people who took metformin. —Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 6 Feb. 2025

In a healthy population, only about 3 to 4 percent of people are vitamin B12 deficient, compared with the 29 percent of people with type 2 diabetes taking metformin, says Bridges. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 29 Jan. 2025

Certain medications, like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (drugs that reduce stomach acid production) and metformin (antidiabetic drug), can also interfere with B12 absorption.3 8 Essential B Vitamins Eight B vitamins work together to support numerous bodily functions and processes. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

methyl + -formin (as in phenformin, an earlier antidiabetic drug)

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for metformin

• longshoreman
• longshoremen
• corpsman
• foreman
• foremen
• mormon
• warman

Medical Definition

metformin

noun

met·​for·​min met-ˈfȯr-mən 

: an antidiabetic drug used in the form of its hydrochloride C₄H₁₁N₅·HCl especially to treat type 2 diabetes in patients unresponsive to or intolerant of approved sulfonylurea drugs

Note: Trademarks for preparations containing metformin include Glucophage, Glucovance, Invokamet, Janumet, Jentadueto, and Kombiglyze.